If you're celebrating today, there’s a good chance you’re going to be craving something to munch on later. We’ve all been there, after a late-night out with friends, you come home craving something not so macro-friendly. While it’s totally satisfying at the moment, the next day may not feel as good. Just like with a workout routine, eating healthy is all about being prepared. Having some delicious and goal-hitting snacks on hand will satisfy your cravings without the guilt.
BUDGET YOUR MACROS
If you’re not planning to use a precious cheat meal while you’re out with friends, there are some delicious options that will help you budget your macros without sacrificing flavor. Plan ahead and know where you want to use your macros and how before heading out. Going in with a clear game plan will not only help you from spiraling, but you’ll be less focused on food while you’re out. With a little planning and creative swaps, you’ll be able to enjoy some of your favorite munchies and still stay on track.
ANTICIPATE YOUR CRAVINGS
So, what’s your go-to? Do you have a sweet tooth or do chips call to you from the pantry in the middle of the night? Whatever your weak spot, here are some of the FIT Fam’s favorite swaps to satisfy even the most intense midnight cravings:
- For crunch & sweetness go for some roasted nuts or trail mix
- Craving something more savory? Lightly buttered popcorn should do the trick
- For choco-holics, grab some squares of dark chocolate
- To replace chips and dip, go for pretzels with greek yogurt
- Sweet tooth? ½ cup of vanilla ice cream (or Halo Top) with fresh berries will leave you satisfied!
- Love soda? Opt for diet soda like Ollipop or a calorie-free sparkling water like La Croix or Izze
- For full-on guilt-free snacking, have some fresh fruit with honey or veggies with nut butter on hand
Need some more ideas? Here are some of our favorite guilt-free snacks that keep us on track, even on days like April 20th.
FOR THOSE THAT LIKE IT SWEET
MELTED MUNCHIES
One of our FAVORITE ways to hit the spot without the guilt is with Alani Nu protein bars. The Munchies flavor is the ultimate mix of salty and sweet, satisfying even the most discriminating sweet tooth. Break the bar apart and pop it in the microwave for about 15 seconds for a warm and delicious treat.
17g carbs, 5g sugar, 16g protein
PEANUT BUTTER RICE CAKES
Simple and delicious! Just spread 1 ½ tablespoons of peanut butter over 2 rice cakes and voila! Mix it up with almond or cashew butter or throw a sliced banana on top.
18g carbs, 12g fat, 6g protein
PROTEIN CEREAL
We all know breakfast is always a good choice, no matter what time of day. Hit your macros and get a little nostalgia with a protein-packed cereal. Your local grocery store should have a high protein option (or, we’re loving Magic Spoon!), grab some almond milk, and you’re set.
14g carbs, 5g fat, 20g protein
CAKE BATTER SMOOTHIE
There’s nothing like licking the bowl after making some delicious confetti cupcakes. Now you can have a healthy smoothie with the same taste and zero stomach ache. Just blend 1 frozen banana, ¼ cup of rolled oats, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1 cup of nut milk, and 1 scoop of Alani Nu confetti cake protein powder. Happy birthday to you!
43g carbs, 5g fat, 20g protein
PROTEIN COOKIE DOUGH
The only thing better than cake batter is cookie dough. This healthy version calls for 5 tbsp of vanilla protein powder, 1 tbsp of coconut flour, a pinch of salt 1 tbsp + 2 tsp of unsweetened applesauce, 1 tsp of unsweetened vanilla almond milk, ¼ tsp of butter extract, ½ tsp of dairy-free chocolate chips. Mix together and roll into balls and keep them in the fridge. A perfect snack when you’re craving something sweet!
19g carbs, 5g fat, 19g protein
CHOCOLATE DIPPED STRAWBERRIES
Fancy and delicious! You’ll just need chocolate baking chips and strawberries with the stems on. Melt the chocolate chips in a bowl then dip strawberries in. Let them sit on a piece of parchment paper. Top with nuts or sea salt for some extra flavor!
4g carbs, 2g fat
APPLE NACHOS
Almost like apple pie, but even better! Grab 2 apples of choice and thinly slice them. Top with shredded coconut, sliced almonds, cinnamon, lemon juice, and warm nut butter. *Chef’s kiss*
42g carbs, 20g fat, 8g protein
FOR OUR SAVORY SNACKERS
GUAC & VEGGIES
It’s easy to impress your friends with some homemade guacamole. Just mash 3 peeled and pitted avocados, add the juice of one lime, 1 tsp of salt, ½ cup of diced onion 3 tablespoons of chopped cilantro, 2 Roma tomatoes diced, 1 teaspoon of minced garlic, and one pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick. Chop some veggies to dip and there you go.
18g carbs, 22g fat, 3g protein
POPCORN
The flavor possibilities are endless with this staple snack. Get creative with seasonings like salt and vinegar, BBQ, or even honey mustard.
21g carbs, 1.2g fat, 3g protein
CAULIFLOWER BUFFALO BITES
Easier than it looks, this snack really packs a punch. Cut a head of cauliflower into bite size florets. Mix 2 melted tablespoons of butter, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and a half a cup of Frank’s Hot Sauce together then toss the cauliflower in, coating it completely. In another bowl, mix ½ cup of almond flour, 3 tablespoons of dried parsley, ½ tablespoon of garlic salt, 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt. Sprinkle the mixture on top of the coated cauliflower and mix until it’s all covered. Then throw it in the air fryer for 15 minutes at 350. Serve with celery sticks and your favorite blue cheese dressing!
12g carbs, 17g fat, 6g protein
EVERYTHING BUT THE BAGEL RICE CAKES
Just like the sweet option, grab 2 rice cakes and spread 1 ½ tablespoon of cream cheese and top with Everything but the Bagel seasoning!
20g carbs, 12g fat, 5g protein
SUSHI
Don’t panic, we’re not giving you a recipe to make your own sushi. Since we all aren’t iron chefs, just pick some sushi up on the way home for a fresh and delicious snack. Stay away from fried rolls, cream cheese, or lots of sauces. Opt for fresh fish and veggie-packed options.
PRETZELS + RANCH GREEK YOGURT
Add a little pep to your greek yogurt with a flavored dressing packet. Just mix some plain greek yogurt with a ranch dressing packet and top with some chopped dill. Dip veggies, pretzels, or anything else you can think of!
2g carbs, 1g fat, 7g protein
IF ALL ELSE FAILS...
Being prepared is half the battle when it comes to sticking to your goals. Planning for social gatherings and anticipating your cravings will set you up for success, but don’t forget that it’s ok to live your life! Success is all about your mindset when it comes to bouncing back. You’ve got this!